← Back to collection
Region: General | Usage example: That minor glitch is only the tip of the iceberg.

Tip of the iceberg

Meaning

A small visible part of a much larger issue.

Usage

Warns about hidden problems.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Icebergs have most mass beneath water.

Longstanding maritime metaphor.

Related Idioms

Tempest in a teapot

A large reaction over a small issue.

A stitch in time saves nine

Fixing small problems now prevents bigger ones later.

The devil is in the details

Small issues cause big problems if ignored.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.